Barton Leadership Program

The Barton Leadership Program is Forum 225’s premier leadership training program that enables class members to develop their leadership skills while promoting community involvement and volunteerism in Baton Rouge. Participants gain a behind-the-scenes look at important topics in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors from local subject matter experts while building relationships with other like minded young professionals.

The Barton Leadership Program:

• Introduces participants to a diverse group of business, civic, and community leaders.
• Broadens participants’ knowledge about the rich history, important events, and unique culture of our city. 
• Empowers participants to network and build relationships with fellow young professionals.
• Challenges and equips participants with the resources and knowledge needed to become active community members in service of our city. 

Participants leave the program better equipped to make an impact as a young professional in Baton Rouge. Plus, they emerge better connected to the people, organizations, and service opportunities that can, together, effect positive and meaningful changes in our community. When young professionals activate their knowledge and connections gained through Barton Leadership, our community and businesses benefit from improved understanding, services, and relationships. 

Any Baton Rouge young professional who wishes to be more engaged in the community is encouraged to apply. Whether you are new to Baton Rouge or have lived here your entire life, Barton Leadership will connect you with our community in a dynamic and meaningful way.

The Barton Leadership Program has dedicated sessions around the following topics:

• Baton Rouge Arts and Culture
• Professional Communication
• Leadership
• Economic Development and Education
• Large-scale Civic Initiatives
• Service and Community Engagement

Participants are also matched with local C-level executives and community leaders as part of an exclusive Mentor Connection program. Participants engage with mentors for one-to-one meetings to discuss topics including, but not limited to:

• Career Development
• Enhancing Industry Knowledge
• Nonprofit Board Involvement
• Professionalism and Personal Growth 

$400.00 for Forum 225 members / $550.00 for non-members. 

This includes a mentorship opportunity, materials, retreat, and evening receptions with key Baton Rouge influencers. Non-members will receive a membership benefits for the duration of the program.

• Application Deadline: Tuesday, June 30, 2025
• Class Notification Date: By Friday, July 31, 2025

• • August 14, 2025: Welcome Reception (6 pm – 8 pm)

  • August 30, 2025: *Mandatory Opening Retreat* (9 am – 2 pm)

  • September 10, 2025: Session One (6 pm – 8:30 pm)

  • October 8, 2025: Session Two (6 pm – 8:30 pm)

  • November 12, 2025: Session Three: (6 pm – 8:30 pm)

  • December 10, 2025: Session Four: (6 pm – 8:30 pm)

  • January 14, 2026: Session Five: (6 pm – 8:30 pm)

  • February 4, 2026: Session Six (6 pm – 8:30 pm)

  • March 7, 2026: *Mandatory Closing Retreat*: (9 am – 2 pm)

  • March 26, 2026: Closing Reception (6 pm – 8 pm)

If you are interested in the Barton Leadership Program or have any questions, contact the Barton Leadership Chair at barton@forum225.org.